Definition
Catheters promote bacteria in urine, which does not always mean an infection needing treatment.
Symptoms
Fever, new pain or general deterioration; odour or cloudy urine alone is insufficient.
How it may be discovered
Symptoms during or shortly after catheter use.
When to seek care
Fever with marked illness or a painful non-draining catheter requires urgent advice.
Investigations and tests
Examination and correctly collected catheter sample, not urine from an old bag.
Reaching a diagnosis
Distinguish symptom-free colonisation from clinical infection and consider other fever causes.
Treatment options
Antibiotics only when indicated, reassessment of catheter need and professional replacement or removal as appropriate.
Explore this topic further
Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.